(Las Vegas, NV) — The effects from the departure of CCSD Superintendent Dwight Jones have yet to be realized. Jones resigned to take care of his ailing mother in Dallas, TX, but will move back to Denver, CO where his wife will return to work as a teacher.

“Change was beginning to happen and his leadership brought about a focus in the school district and a change that is positive,” says Communities In Schools President Susie Lee.

During Jones tenure, which began in October of 2010, test scores increased as did the graduation rate. Dropout rates are at the lowest in a decade.

“He had a sense of urgency that I really valued with the last two years that he has been here. I think he has brought a focus to education in southern Nevada that transcends not only parents but the community at-large,” Lee says.

The Clark County School Board will meet March 14 to discuss plans to find a successor. If the board takes no action, Deputy Superintendent Skorkowsky will assume the role of acting superintendent on March 22.

Lee added that the new superintendent will need to be ready to jump in with both feet. “You need a leader who can script some critical moves and provide a vision and the community ready to move,” Lee says.

Transparent Nevada lists Jones’ salary at $396,000, including benefits. His last day will be March 22nd.